Six new cases reported from East Godavari and Visakhapatnam; experts say the situation remains under control, but elderly and people with underlying illnesses should not lower their guard
Hyderabad, July 25: Andhra Pradesh has reported six new COVID-19 cases, three each from East Godavari and Visakhapatnam, prompting health authorities to intensify surveillance while reiterating that the overall situation remains under control. According to the latest state health bulletin, 44 samples were tested, of which three returned positive. The state's cumulative COVID-19 death toll remains at 14,730, with no new fatalities reported in the latest update.
Dr. Satish Reddy, Senior Consultant – Clinical and Interventional Pulmonologist, CARE Hospitals, HITEC City, said the recent increase in cases should be viewed with caution rather than fear.
"Based on the information currently available, severe COVID-19 is largely being seen among people with pre-existing medical conditions such as chronic lung disease, kidney disease, liver disease, cancer, weakened immunity or those taking immunosuppressive medications. Healthy individuals and those who have completed their vaccination are unlikely to develop severe illness. There is no need for unnecessary panic," he said.
He explained that COVID-19 has now evolved into a seasonal respiratory viral infection, similar to influenza, with new variants expected to emerge from time to time.
"The currently circulating virus is an Omicron sub-variant. While its transmissibility is relatively high, the severity is much lower than what was seen during earlier waves. Like seasonal flu, COVID-19 is likely to remain part of our environment, and people should stay alert without becoming anxious," Dr. Reddy added.
With the ongoing monsoon season, hospitals are also witnessing an increase in influenza, swine flu and other viral respiratory infections. Since fever, sore throat, body aches, cough, loss of smell or taste, abdominal discomfort and loose stools are common to several viral illnesses, Dr. Reddy advised people with symptoms to consult a doctor rather than self-medicate. A respiratory viral panel or flu panel test, when recommended, can help identify whether the infection is COVID-19, influenza or another respiratory virus.
He stressed that patients who develop breathlessness, falling oxygen levels or signs of pneumonia should seek immediate medical attention, as early treatment significantly reduces the risk of complications.
According to Dr. Reddy, elderly individuals, pregnant women, cancer patients, people with chronic heart, lung, kidney or liver diseases, transplant recipients and those with weakened immunity remain the most vulnerable to severe COVID-19 and should continue to take extra precautions.
He advised people to wear masks in crowded places, maintain frequent hand hygiene, avoid close contact with individuals who have cough or fever, and follow respiratory etiquette to reduce the risk of viral infections.
Dr. Reddy also recommended that eligible individuals receive their annual influenza vaccine, pneumococcal vaccine and COVID-19 booster dose, as vaccination continues to provide protection against severe disease and hospitalisation.
Maintaining adequate hydration, consuming a balanced protein-rich diet, getting sufficient rest and supporting overall immunity are equally important during the current season, he said.
"Most viral infections during this season are mild and recover with appropriate care. High-risk individuals should seek medical advice promptly if symptoms develop. For the general public, there is no need to panic, but it is important not to become complacent. Simple preventive measures remain the best defence against COVID-19 and other seasonal viral infections," Dr. Reddy concluded.